Visualization of the I-494 Corridor at I-35W:   The Mn/DOT Project Manager decided to have a visualization created for this complicated I-494 / I-35W project because, using traditional engineering layouts for two years, the DOT had been unsuccessful in explaining the project to the general public and to key stakeholders. The Department determined that using visualization would help the public 'see' and therefore approve the project. URS, which had been chosen by Mn/DOT to revise the preliminary layout and to perform the corridor traffic analysis, was asked by Mn/DOT to add a 3-D visualization to the scope of work. The visualization was to be used to speed up the public involvement process.

Logan Canyon Curve:   UDOT has recently created a 3D visualization of a proposed alignment near the summit of Logan Canyon on SR-89 close to Bear Lake. The visualization aided UDOT in public meetings held in early November concerning the project. The visualization clearly shows the number and location of trees that would be removed during the re-alignment project. 3D modeling of the exact location and number of affected trees provides accurate information to designers and the public as to the concerns and development of the best 'context sensitive' solution for this alignment problem.

Guidance for the Project Engineer:   Despite a marked increase in the application of visualization to transportation-related projects, there continues to be a need for basic ‘guidance’ that can used by transportation project managers on what is required in order to develop an integrated and effective application of this technology. Project managers unfamiliar with visualization need information on the range of visualization ‘products’ or applications, the conditions under which each may be effective, as well as how to understand the often complicated relationships between visualization benefits and cost.

Peace Bridge Visualization Project:   The Peace Bridge is a 75 year old 3 lane bridge that connects Buffalo, NY to Fort Erie Canada. The Peace Bridge Authority is interested in building either a companion span or replacement for the existing bridge. Visualization is needed to gain approval from the public and various local authorities on what the replacement structure will look like, i.e., a Signature Span versus a utilitarian companion span.

Inglis Lock Visualization:  The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers needed to convert the existing large Inglis lock structure into a smaller more usable one. Located approximately 90-miles north of Tampa Bay Florida, the large lock has become too inefficient for the small boat traffic that now uses it. Over the past few years, it has also fallen into disrepair which has resulted in the miter gates no longer functioning. The new smaller lock will reopen the Lake Rousseau recreational area to boat traffic from the surrounding local rivers and the Gulf of Mexico. Unique construction sequencing methods were used for the lock reconstruction.

SR 167 Good To Go Project:   The Washington State Department of Transportation utilized “drive-thru” animation as part of a short multi-media public information effort in describing the need and value of HOT lanes for the SR 167 Pilot Project.  The visualization explains not only how a user would utilize the facility, but also describes how transponder technology is used to process user fees as a part of congestion pricing.  CLICK HERE to watch the video or visit the SR 167 Pilot Project web site.